Solomon wrote, “Do not be rash with your mouth, and let not your heart utter anything hastily before God. For God is in heaven and you on earth; therefore let your words be few” (Eccl 5:2). Many need to work harder at applying this instruction.
There are really two warnings here. One caution concerns words that are hastily spoken: “Do not be rash with your mouth.” How often have we uttered words without giving careful thought? The results can be hurt feelings, damaged relationships, even sin. James said, “let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak . . .” Remember that a word spoken can never be un-spoken. It’s an irreversible action, and we may have to live with the re-action!
The other warning contained in this statement from wise Solomon is a warning about simply talking too much. “Let your words be few”, he says. What a temptation it is to tell everything we know, about every subject under the sun. When we do so, we cause others to “tune us out”, even during the rare occasions when we really do have something important to say. Someone has suggested that God gave us two ears and just one mouth – therefore we ought to listen twice as much as we talk. Think about it!
Eccl. 5:2 goes on to explain why we must be so cautious with our speech. “God is in heaven and you on earth.” Never forget that you have an almighty Creator who is listening to your every word. Be careful (Matthew 12:36,37).
– by Greg Gwin